The great violinist, Nicolo Paganini, willed his exquisite violin to Genoa – the city of his birth – but only on the condition that the instrument never be played again. It was an unfortunate condition, for it is the characteristic of wood that as long as it is used and handled, it shows little decline in quality. However, as soon as it is set aside in storage, it begins to decay.

The fabulous, mellow-toned violin became worm-eaten stored in its gorgeous case, valueless now except as a relic. The deteriorating instrument is a reminder that gifts and talents are tools meant to be used, not treasures to be stored up. Likewise, a life withdrawn from love and service to others loses its meaning.

Source: Brain Cavanaugh, Sower’s Seeds That Nurture Family Values, p.66

The great violinist, Nicolo Paganini, willed his exquisite violin to Genoa – the city of his birth – but only on the condition that the instrument never be played again. It was an unfortunate condition, for it is the characteristic of wood that as long as it is used and handled, it shows little decline in quality. However, as soon as it is set aside in storage, it begins to decay.

The fabulous, mellow-toned violin became worm-eaten stored in its gorgeous case, valueless now except as a relic. The deteriorating instrument is a reminder that gifts and talents are tools meant to be used, not treasures to be stored up. Likewise, a life withdrawn from love and service to others loses its meaning.

Source: Brain Cavanaugh, Sower’s Seeds That Nurture Family Values, p.66